Dicyclomine
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Drug Status
Government Approvals
US(FDA)
WHO Essential Medicine
NO
Known Teratogen
NO
Pharmaceutical Class
Anticholinergic
Controlled Drug Substance
NO
Dicyclomine
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Click HereSummary
Dicyclomine is primarily used to treat symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), such as abdominal pain, cramping, and discomfort.
Dicyclomine works by blocking the activity of a natural substance in the body called acetylcholine that causes muscle spasms. This reduces spasms in the gastrointestinal tract, providing relief from IBS symptoms.
The usual starting dose for adults is 20 mg of Dicyclomine, taken four times a day. After one week, this may be increased to 40 mg four times a day if needed and tolerated. It's not recommended for children under 6 months.
Common side effects of Dicyclomine include dry mouth, dizziness, and blurred vision. Serious side effects can include confusion, hallucinations, and rapid heartbeat. If you experience severe side effects, contact your doctor immediately.
Dicyclomine is not recommended for infants under 6 months, nursing mothers, and patients with glaucoma, myasthenia gravis, or severe ulcerative colitis. Elderly patients should use it with caution. Avoid driving if drowsy or dizzy.
Indications and Purpose
How does Dicyclomine work?
Dicyclomine works by blocking the action of acetylcholine, a natural substance in the body that causes muscle spasms. It acts as an anticholinergic, reducing spasms in the gastrointestinal tract and providing relief from symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome.
How does one know if Dicyclomine is working?
The benefit of Dicyclomine is evaluated by monitoring the relief of symptoms associated with irritable bowel syndrome. If symptoms do not improve within two weeks or if side effects occur, the treatment may need to be reassessed by a healthcare provider.
Is Dicyclomine effective?
In controlled clinical trials, 82% of patients treated with Dicyclomine for irritable bowel syndrome showed a favorable response compared to 55% of those given a placebo. This indicates that Dicyclomine is effective in relieving symptoms of this condition.
What is Dicyclomine?
Dicyclomine is used to treat symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome by relieving muscle spasms in the gastrointestinal tract. It works as an anticholinergic, blocking the activity of certain natural substances in the body that cause muscle spasms. This helps reduce abdominal pain and discomfort.
What is Dicyclomine used for?
Dicyclomine is primarily indicated for the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). It helps relieve symptoms such as abdominal pain, cramping, and discomfort by reducing muscle spasms in the gastrointestinal tract.
Directions for Use
For how long do I take Dicyclomine?
Dicyclomine is typically used for short-term relief of irritable bowel syndrome symptoms. If no improvement is seen within two weeks or if side effects require doses below 80 mg per day, the medication should be discontinued. Long-term use is not recommended without medical supervision.
How do I dispose of Dicyclomine?
If you can, bring unused medicines to a drug take-back program or collection site at a pharmacy or hospital. They will dispose of this medicine properly so they don't harm people or the environment. If you can't find a take-back program, you can throw most medicines in the trash at home. But first, take them out of their original containers, mix them with something undesirable like used coffee grounds, seal the mixture in a plastic bag and throw it away.
How do I take Dicyclomine?
Dicyclomine can be taken with or without food, but it is important to follow your doctor's instructions. There are no specific food restrictions, but avoid alcohol as it can increase drowsiness. Take the medication at the same times each day to help remember your doses.
How long does it take for Dicyclomine to start working?
Dicyclomine is rapidly absorbed and typically starts working within 60 to 90 minutes after oral administration. It helps relieve symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome by reducing muscle spasms in the gastrointestinal tract.
How should I store Dicyclomine?
Store Dicyclomine at room temperature, away from excess heat and moisture. Keep it in its original container, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Do not store it in the bathroom to prevent exposure to moisture.
What is the usual dose of Dicyclomine?
For adults, the usual starting dose of Dicyclomine is 20 mg taken four times a day. After one week, the dose may be increased to 40 mg four times a day if needed and tolerated. Dicyclomine is not recommended for children under 6 months of age due to safety concerns. For older children, dosing should be determined by a healthcare provider.
Warnings and Precautions
Can Dicyclomine be taken safely while breastfeeding?
Dicyclomine is contraindicated for breastfeeding mothers, as it is excreted in breast milk and may cause serious adverse reactions in infants. A decision should be made to either discontinue nursing or the medication, considering the drug's importance to the mother.
Can Dicyclomine be taken safely while pregnant?
Dicyclomine should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed, as there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Animal studies have not shown harm to the fetus, but human data is limited. Consult your doctor for personalized advice.
Can I take Dicyclomine with other prescription drugs?
Dicyclomine may interact with other anticholinergic drugs, increasing side effects. It can also affect the absorption of other medications like digoxin. Avoid using antacids simultaneously, as they may interfere with Dicyclomine's absorption. Consult your doctor about all medications you are taking.
Can I take Dicyclomine with vitamins or supplements?
There are no well-documented confirmed interactions between Dicyclomine and vitamins or supplements. There is also no evidence suggesting a need for supplementation due to nutrient depletion caused by Dicyclomine. However, it's important to inform your healthcare provider about all medications and supplements you are taking to avoid potential interactions. They can provide personalized advice and monitor for any adverse effects.
Does Dicyclomine have adverse effects?
Adverse effects are unwanted or harmful effects caused by a medicine. Dicyclomine can cause some adverse effects, including dry mouth, dizziness, blurred vision, nausea, and constipation. These are generally not serious but can be bothersome. Rarely, it may cause serious effects like difficulty breathing, confusion, or hallucinations, which need immediate medical attention. It's important to report any new or worsening symptoms to your healthcare provider and not to stop taking the medicine without consulting them first.
Does Dicyclomine have any safety warnings?
Dicyclomine comes with several safety warnings. It can cause dizziness and blurred vision, so avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how it affects you. It may also cause heat prostration, which is overheating, especially in hot weather, so stay hydrated and avoid excessive heat. Be cautious if you have conditions like glaucoma or heart problems, as Dicyclomine can worsen these. Monitor for symptoms like confusion, difficulty urinating, or rapid heartbeat, and contact your doctor if they occur.
Is Dicyclomine addictive?
Dicyclomine is not known to be addictive or habit-forming. It does not have the potential to cause physical or psychological dependence. Therefore, there are no specific behaviors or warning signs related to addiction for this medicine. However, it's always important to use it as prescribed by your healthcare provider and not to exceed the recommended dose.
Is Dicyclomine safe for the elderly?
Elderly patients should use Dicyclomine with caution, as they may be more susceptible to its side effects, such as confusion and drowsiness. It is generally recommended to start at the lower end of the dosing range and monitor for adverse effects. Consult a doctor for personalized advice.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Dicyclomine?
Drinking alcohol while taking Dicyclomine can increase the drowsiness effect of the medication. It is advised to avoid alcohol to prevent excessive drowsiness and potential impairment in activities requiring alertness, such as driving.
Is it safe to exercise while taking Dicyclomine?
Dicyclomine may cause drowsiness, dizziness, and blurred vision, which can affect your ability to exercise safely. Additionally, it reduces the body's ability to cool off by sweating, increasing the risk of heat stroke during physical activity. Exercise caution and consult your doctor if you experience these effects.
Is it safe to stop Dicyclomine?
Dicyclomine is typically used for symptomatic relief of conditions like irritable bowel syndrome, which is a temporary or acute condition. Stopping it suddenly may lead to a return of symptoms, but it doesn't usually cause withdrawal symptoms. However, it's important to consult with your doctor before stopping Dicyclomine to ensure it's safe and to discuss any potential risks. Your doctor can provide guidance on how to stop the medication safely if needed.
What are the most common side effects of Dicyclomine?
A side effect is an unwanted effect of a medicine. Common side effects of Dicyclomine include dry mouth, dizziness, blurred vision, nausea, and constipation. These effects are generally mild and may go away as your body adjusts to the medicine. It's important to remember that new symptoms can occur when starting any new medicine, and they might not be related to the medicine itself. Always talk to your healthcare provider before stopping any medication.
Who should avoid taking Dicyclomine?
Dicyclomine is contraindicated in infants under 6 months, nursing mothers, and patients with glaucoma, myasthenia gravis, or severe ulcerative colitis. It should be used cautiously in elderly patients and those with cardiovascular, renal, or hepatic conditions. Avoid driving if drowsy or dizzy.
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